HT Core Curriculum

The core curriculum requirements correspond to nine core competencies, which the faculty have determined all HT graduates, regardless of major or professional career preparation, should be able demonstrate:

• Aesthetics
• Analysis/Problem Solving/Critical Thinking
• Appreciation of Diversity in a Context of Global and Historical Awareness
• Citizenship and Social Responsibility
• Effective Communication 
• Effective Use of Technology
• Ethical Reasoning and Behavior
• Understanding and Applying Science
• Wellness

The core curriculum includes courses in the three principle areas of knowledge: four courses from the humanities and fine arts (literature, philosophy or religion, history, and fine arts), two courses from the social and behavioral sciences (sociology or psychology, and government), three courses from the natural sciences and mathematics (two natural science courses with a lab component and College Algebra or a higher-level mathematics course), as well as courses in wellness and physical activity; written and oral communication in English and foreign languages; and computer technology. This broad foundation ensures all HT graduates acquire a scope of knowledge to inspire and support intellectual inquiry, whatever their chosen field of study or career goals.

In addition to and integrated throughout the liberal arts and sciences curriculum, core curriculum requirements ensure students who graduate with a baccalaureate degree acquire the skills to succeed in their major programs and future professions. The writing intensive component requires students to take 9 hours of courses beyond ENG 113 and 123, as part of their academic programs, that the Core Curriculum Committee have certified as meeting criteria the committee developed for writing intensive courses. Three of these hours must be taken at the 300- or 400-level. Most of the University’s majors and many core curriculum courses from a variety of disciplines now include courses designated as writing intensive. These courses are listed in the current Bulletin and in the Course Schedule with a “W” designation.

The diversity component especially responds to HT’s individual identity as an historically Black institution and an institution that acknowledges the value of human diversity. Students are required to take 6 hours of diversity-focused courses, which have met criteria developed by the Core Curriculum Committee. Three (3) of the six diversity course hours (or, one diversity course) must have an African/African Diaspora focus. As a result of this requirement, core courses have been developed with a diversity focus (e.g., Introduction to African American Literature) and many of the University’s major programs have included courses with a diversity focus. These courses are listed in the current Bulletin and in the Course Schedule with a “D” designation.